On August 25th, the Indian Cricket Board made a momentous announcement, revealing that IDFC First Bank has successfully secured the title rights for the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) home international series. This significant collaboration spans a duration of three years, with IDFC First Bank committing a substantial sum of Rs. 4.2 crore per international match.
The partnership’s scope is expansive, encapsulating a total of 56 matches scheduled over the upcoming three years. This diverse array of matches includes 15 One Day Internationals (ODIs), 15 test matches, and 26 T20 matches, promising a dynamic cricketing experience for fans.
IDFC First Bank’s sponsorship extends beyond the realm of high-profile international matches. The agreement encompasses a wide spectrum of BCCI-organized domestic cricket events, elevating the partnership to a comprehensive level. Notable tournaments like the revered Irani Trophy, the prestigious Duleep Trophy, and the iconic Ranji Trophy find a place within this collaboration. Furthermore, the partnership extends its embrace to encompass junior cricket matches, fostering the growth of cricket at the grassroots level, specifically in the Under 19 and Under 23 categories held within India.
The sponsorship rights, with a base price of Rs. 2.4 crore per match, attracted significant attention and underline the considerable value placed on cricket sponsorship. IDFC First Bank’s robust bid of Rs. 4.2 crore per match underscores their deep commitment to associating with one of India’s most cherished sports. In a competitive bidding scenario, SonyLIV emerged as another contender, offering Rs. 2.7 crore per match. However, IDFC First Bank’s fervor and dedication remained unparalleled, securing them the coveted title rights.
Commencing with the upcoming three-match ODI series hosted by India against Australia, the contract between IDFC First Bank and BCCI is set to span a three-year period. This partnership marks the initiation of a promising era, where IDFC First Bank and BCCI join forces to craft unparalleled experiences for cricket enthusiasts. The fusion of financial prowess and cricketing passion is poised to shape the future of cricket in India.